Cover image via New Straits TimesA Form 3 student from a secondary school near Kangar, Perlis was rushed to Hospital Tuanku Fauziah on Monday, 21 April, after reportedly suffering a seizure believed to be caused by vaping in the school toilet
The incident happened at around 9.35am while the student was sitting for an English exam.
According to Perlis Education director Rose Aza Che Arifin, the student, along with two friends, left the classroom without their teacher's permission, reported the New Straits Times.
Rose Aza said that a teacher who was invigilating at the time saw the student being carried back into the classroom by his friends. He was unconscious and foaming at the mouth.
An ambulance was called and the student was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Preliminary investigations revealed the student had vaped in the school toilet prior to the incident.
The student remains under observation, and his family has been notified, reported The Vibes.
The school has assigned its discipline teacher and counsellor to assist with the ongoing investigation.
This is the second vape-related incident in Perlis involving a student. Last November, a 14-year-old boy injured his leg after falling from school roof due to a bout of vape-induced dizziness.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay recently urged state governments to impose full bans on vape and e-cigarette sales in light of growing concerns over synthetic drug abuse by minors using these devices.
It was reported that a 2022 Health Ministry (MOH) study found that 15% of teenagers aged 13 to 17 were regular vape users, drawn by flavours that mimic fruits and fizzy drinks.
Treating vape-related lung injuries is projected to cost the government over RM382 million annually by 2030. Hospitalisations can cost up to RM150,000 per patient, based on a typical 12-day stay.
To date, only Johor and Terengganu have imposed statewide bans. Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, and Pahang are said to be considering similar action.
